Rickey Medlocke was born on February 17, 1950, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was raised by his grandparents, who were both musicians, and they introduced him to music at a young age. Medlocke’s grandfather, Shorty Medlocke, was a renowned musician and songwriter, and he played a significant role in shaping Medlocke’s musical career. At the age of three, Medlocke received his first drum set, and by the time he was five, he was already performing on stage with his grandparents.
Medlocke’s passion for music continued to grow, and by the time he was a teenager, he had already mastered several instruments, including the guitar, drums, and vocals. He was heavily influenced by the blues and rock music of the 1960s and 1970s, and he began performing in local clubs and venues. It was during this time that Medlocke honed his skills as a musician and developed his unique style that would later define his career.
Key Takeaways
- Rickey Medlocke began his musical journey at a young age, learning to play the drums and guitar and performing with his family’s band, The Medlocke Family.
- In the 1970s, Medlocke co-founded the Southern rock band Blackfoot, which achieved early success with hits like “Train, Train” and “Highway Song.”
- Medlocke joined Lynyrd Skynyrd in the 1990s, bringing his unique blend of Southern rock and Native American influences to the band and contributing to their continued evolution.
- Alongside his work with Lynyrd Skynyrd, Medlocke pursued a solo career and collaborated with artists like Hank Williams Jr., Charlie Daniels, and Peter Frampton.
- Medlocke’s influence on rock music is undeniable, blending Southern rock, blues, and Native American musical elements to create a sound that has left a lasting impact on the genre.
The Formation of Blackfoot and Early Success
In 1969, Medlocke co-founded the band Blackfoot with his childhood friend Greg T. Walker. The band quickly gained attention for their high-energy performances and powerful blend of Southern rock and hard rock. Medlocke’s dynamic stage presence and exceptional musical abilities set Blackfoot apart from other bands of the era. The band released their debut album, “No Reservations,” in 1975, which received critical acclaim and solidified their place in the rock music scene.
Blackfoot’s success continued to grow with the release of their follow-up albums, “Flyin’ High” and “Strikes.” These albums produced several hit singles, including “Train, Train” and “Highway Song,” which became anthems for rock music fans around the world. Medlocke’s songwriting and musical contributions were instrumental in shaping Blackfoot’s sound and establishing them as one of the leading rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s.
Joining Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Evolution of the Band
In 1971, Medlocke was invited to join Lynyrd Skynyrd as a drummer, but he declined the offer to focus on Blackfoot. However, in 1996, he was asked to rejoin Lynyrd Skynyrd as a guitarist and vocalist. This marked a significant turning point in Medlocke’s career, as he became an integral part of one of the most iconic rock bands in history. His addition to Lynyrd Skynyrd brought a new energy and creativity to the band, and his powerful vocals and exceptional guitar skills added a fresh dimension to their sound.
Medlocke’s influence on Lynyrd Skynyrd was evident in their live performances and studio recordings. He brought a renewed sense of passion and dedication to the band, and his contributions helped them reach new heights of success. With Medlocke on board, Lynyrd Skynyrd continued to captivate audiences around the world with their timeless hits and electrifying performances.
Solo Career and Collaborations
| Artist | Solo Albums | Collaborations |
|---|---|---|
| Beyoncé | 6 | 10 |
| Justin Timberlake | 4 | 7 |
| Rihanna | 8 | 12 |
In addition to his work with Blackfoot and Lynyrd Skynyrd, Medlocke has also pursued a successful solo career. He released his debut solo album, “Rickey Medlocke,” in 1987, which showcased his versatility as a musician and songwriter. The album received widespread acclaim and further solidified Medlocke’s reputation as a formidable solo artist.
Throughout his career, Medlocke has collaborated with numerous artists across different genres, including country music legend Hank Williams Jr. and rock icon Peter Frampton. These collaborations have allowed Medlocke to explore new musical territories and expand his creative horizons. His ability to seamlessly transition between different styles of music has earned him respect and admiration from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Influence and Impact on Rock Music
Rickey Medlocke’s influence on rock music is undeniable. His innovative approach to blending Southern rock with hard rock has inspired countless musicians and bands over the years. His powerful vocals, electrifying guitar solos, and dynamic stage presence have left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape.
Medlocke’s contributions to Blackfoot and Lynyrd Skynyrd have helped shape the sound of Southern rock and have cemented his legacy as a pioneer of the genre. His ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level through his music has made him a beloved figure in the rock community. Medlocke’s impact on rock music continues to resonate with fans around the world, and his influence will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
Personal Life and Legacy
Outside of his music career, Rickey Medlocke is known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to giving back to his community. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives and has used his platform to raise awareness for important causes. Medlocke’s commitment to making a positive impact on the world reflects his compassionate nature and generous spirit.
As a musician, Medlocke’s legacy is firmly rooted in his unwavering passion for creating timeless music that resonates with people from all walks of life. His dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level have solidified his status as a true legend in the world of rock music. Medlocke’s influence will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and serve as a testament to the enduring power of music.
Future Plans and Continued Success
As Rickey Medlocke looks towards the future, he remains as passionate and driven as ever. He continues to tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd, captivating audiences with their electrifying performances and timeless hits. Additionally, he is constantly exploring new musical avenues and collaborating with other artists to create innovative music that pushes boundaries.
Medlocke’s dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to excellence ensure that he will continue to achieve success in the years to come. His enduring legacy as a pioneering musician and influential figure in rock music is a testament to his remarkable talent and profound impact on the industry. As he continues to inspire fans around the world with his music, Rickey Medlocke’s legacy will undoubtedly stand the test of time.
Rickey Medlocke, the legendary guitarist and vocalist of Lynyrd Skynyrd, has been making waves with his incredible performances and musical talent. In a recent interview with Hawaiian Telcom, Medlocke shared insights into his career and the band’s enduring legacy. To learn more about this fascinating conversation, check out the article on Hawaiian Telcom’s website.
FAQs
Who is Rickey Medlocke?
Rickey Medlocke is a musician best known as the lead guitarist and vocalist for the Southern rock band Blackfoot. He is also a current member of the legendary rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd.
What instruments does Rickey Medlocke play?
Rickey Medlocke is primarily known for playing the guitar and providing vocals. He is also skilled in playing the drums and the banjo.
What are some notable achievements of Rickey Medlocke?
Rickey Medlocke has achieved success as a musician with Blackfoot and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and has been inducted into the Native American Music Hall of Fame. He has also been recognized for his contributions to Southern rock music.
Is Rickey Medlocke of Native American descent?
Yes, Rickey Medlocke is of Native American descent, specifically of the Blackfoot tribe. He has been vocal about his heritage and has incorporated it into his music and public persona.
What is Rickey Medlocke’s role in Lynyrd Skynyrd?
Rickey Medlocke joined Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1996 as a guitarist and has since become a prominent member of the band, contributing to their continued success and touring with them extensively.